Best Genmaicha Tea | Willow in NYC

In this well-informed world, the benefits of green tea are well-known and widely acknowledged. Across all corners of this country– and the globe at large– it’s common to find individuals following up their lunch with a steaming mug of green tea, eager to take part in the health benefits. But by enjoying some of the best genmaicha tea, you can meet your fix in a way that surprises you with every sip.

Life is nothing without a peaceful little break. Now, with help from the same minds that brought you the full vegan menu at Willow in NYC, learn how you can easily incorporate that peaceful moment into your day, all without fear of breaking from your cruelty-free principles. For an even more relaxing vegan experience, come down to our conveniently located restaurant to enjoy creative, innovative meal options as you’ve never seen them before.

Explore our full menu, and never again feel the need to sacrifice your own cruelty-free standards for the sake of an easy dinner. Ready to sample the flavors for yourself? Place an order for pickup or delivery, and let us bring all the flavor to your door.

Enjoy Genmaicha Tea on Us

Genmaicha tea, also known as “brown rice tea” or “popcorn tea,” is a unique and traditional Japanese green tea that stands out due to its distinct combination of green tea leaves and roasted brown rice kernels. This combination creates a flavorful, aromatic brew with a slightly nutty and toasty taste. When done properly, a cup of warm genmaicha tea offers more than just the obvious health benefits; it offers outstanding benefits to your mental and emotional health as well.

The creation of Genmaicha tea is rooted in history and practicality. It is believed that the addition of rice to the tea was originally a way to extend the availability of tea during times when tea leaves were scarce or expensive. The roasted rice acted as a filler, making the tea more affordable and accessible.

Rather than common green teas, which can often rely on cheap flavors and overpoweringly artificial fruit flavors, genmaicha is entirely natural. Its complex, nutty flavor serves to remove the bitterness of green tea without covering it up. To make the most of this intricate, unusual beverage, order at Willow. We know how to make the most of this incredible beverage.

Make Your Own Genmaicha Tea

Invest in the Proper Equipment

Though tea does not necessarily need to be an expensive hobby, it takes a bit of preparation to work the best genmaicha tea into your daily routine.

To start with, select what kind of filter you want to use. The most common options are metal strainers or filter baskets, which you can plunge directly into a cup or teapot. Alternatively, you may want to just purchase paper filters, which you can fill with your desired tea for an easy, cheap stepping-stone into the lifestyle. Tread carefully if you choose this option; be sure to select unbleached tea bags from trustworthy, cruelty-free brands.

From here, you can move on to the fun part. Picking your kettle and mug. For a truly memorable experience, we suggest investing in a cast-iron tea kettle, which can be moved directly from the stovetop to the center of your table, serving as a gorgeous and practical centerpiece.

Allow the Tea to Steep at the Proper Temperature

Making the most of genmaicha tea is nowhere near as simple as heating up a cup of water in the microwave. In fact, doing so can be detrimental to the leaves.

Unlike black tea leaves, which can tolerate a bit of abuse, green tea leaves are much more fragile. Overcooking them or exposing them to harsh heat can easily add a sharp, bitter flavor, as taste most commonly described as “burnt grass.” Chances are, if you’ve tried and disliked green tea in the past, you’ve fallen victim to this very same issue.

To enhance the most subtle, nutty notes of your genmaicha tea, boil water in a kettle until it reaches around 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, slowly pour it over your leaves. Allow the tea to steep for around three minutes before removing the leaves.

Best Genmaicha Tea in NYC

Hoping to sample the flavors of this unusual tea, but nervous about the process? No worries! Simply step into Willow for a perfectly brewed mug of the best genmaicha tea in the city, we have plenty of treats for you to try on our Willow menu.

As you’re there, further invest in the moment by ordering a cruelty-free appetizer or dessert, turning your quick afternoon break into a culinary experience. Take advantage of our easy online ordering system and place your next order to go.